đHow to Shop Small This Holiday Season (Without Losing the Holiday Cheer!)
- Christine Gray
- Nov 3
- 2 min read
There's nothing like STANDING ON BUSINESS this holiday season. Listen, protesting, sending heated email to government leaders is good and all, BUT hitting them (corps) where it really matters sends a message that ripples all the way to the TOP. So, instead of just closing our wallets, chose to SHOP SMALL & LOCAL. There are so many treasures to find online and down the street.

đ 1. Start with What You Love
Before clicking âadd to cartâ on that big-box site, take a second to think about what makes your favorite small brands special. Do you love handmade candles? Custom printed romance novels? Personalized gifts that feel like they were made just for you? Like sweets? There are local and online small shops that do that, too. Start your search there â itâll make the process way more personal and joyful.
đĄ Tip: Search hashtags like #ShopSmall, #BlackOwnedBusiness, or #EtsyFinds on social media to uncover hidden gems.
đïž 2. Swap âLast-Minuteâ for âMade with Loveâ
Small shops often create products in small batches, meaning youâre getting something unique and not mass-produced. (No dropship here) But that also meansâorder early, Hun! Shopping small isnât about instant gratification; itâs about meaningful, quality gifts.
đĄ Tip: Many small sellers post holiday cutoff dates. Set reminders so you donât miss out on custom goodies!
đ 3. Gift Experiences, Not Just Stuff
Support local creators by gifting experiences:
Book a pottery or cooking class from a local studio.
Gift a subscription to an indie audiobook or romance reading service (wink đ, Oh WOW!! Like After Hours Digital).
Buy digital downloads or local gift cards that support your community.
đĄ Bonus: Experience gifts make for fewer returns and more memories.
â€ïž 5. Think Local First â Even Online
You donât have to drive downtown to support small businesses. Many local shops now sell online or through social platforms. Look up your favorite local boutiques, cafes, and artists... chances are, theyâll deliver or ship directly to you.
đĄ Tip: If you want to give a BookTokish gift, search for your favorite author on TikTok. Many of us offer signed copies with extra fun goodies inside.
đ« 6. Share the Small Business Love
One of the easiest (and free!) ways to support small businesses? Talk about them.
Post your purchases on social media and tag the shop.
Leave glowing reviews.
Tell your friends.
Create a list to share with friends and family.
Every share helps them grow, and you never know who else might discover their new favorite gift because of you.
âš Final Thoughts: Big Love for Small Shops
Shopping small is more than a trend. Itâs a movement! Every purchase is a high-five to someoneâs dream. And honestly, Hun, thereâs nothing more âholiday spiritâ than that.
So this year, letâs skip the mega-retail stress and choose gifts that feel like a hug wrapped in ribbon. The joy of giving isnât just about whatâs under the tree... itâs about who youâre supporting when you shop with heart. đ






Comments